KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) is congratulating Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson on his recent appointment as chief executive officer of the National Road Reconstruction Agency (NaRRA), while urging greater inclusion of local contractors in national infrastructure projects.

Anderson’s appointment was announced by Prime Minister Andrew Holness during a special post-Cabinet media briefing in the banquet hall at Jamaica House on Wednesday. Noting that the NaRRA Bill was officially passed into law, Holness said Anderson will assume duties starting June 1.

READ: Holness appoints Antony Anderson to lead NaRRA

In a release on Thursday,  SBAJ President Garnett Reid said the appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the country’s infrastructure development. He noted that Anderson brings a wealth of knowledge, a proven track record and deep experience from his years as a distinguished public servant.

Reid also expressed hope that Anderson will receive the full cooperation and support necessary from all stakeholders to carry out his duties effectively and efficiently.

While welcoming the appointment, Reid highlighted what he described as a critical priority for the agency moving forward ensuring that small and medium-sized local contractors benefit from upcoming NaRRA investments.

“My only hope is that small and medium-sized contractors get some of the contracts from the NaRRA investments,” Reid said.

He stressed that transparency and structure in the procurement process would be essential, noting that smaller local contractors have historically been overlooked during major development initiatives in favour of larger entities.

Reid further highlighted the economic value of awarding contracts to Jamaican businesses, arguing that doing so helps to retain capital within the country, stimulate local enterprise and strengthen the national economy.

Conversely, he said when multinational corporations secure major contracts, a significant portion of the financial benefits leaves the island.

The SBAJ said it looks forward to building a constructive relationship with Anderson and NaRRA to ensure that Jamaica’s infrastructure expansion contributes to sustainable grassroots economic growth.